Research Officer, Advanced and Digital Manufacturing

The role

We are looking for a Research Officer, Advanced and Digital Manufacturing to support our Automotive and Surface Transportation (AST) Research Centre. The successful candidate would be someone who shares our core values of Integrity, Excellence, Respect and Creativity.

The selected candidate will be responsible for conducting advanced research and development activities in mechatronics, cyber-physical systems and data analytics. The primary focus will be on exploring the integration of digital technologies within physical automated manufacturing processes to advance the state-of-the-art in automation.

The activities in support of program area objectives may include:

• Research and Development: Conduct cutting-edge research in advanced manufacturing, including but not limited to integration of robotics and digital systems to various manufacturing processes and quality control methods.
• Experimental Design and Execution: Design and execute novel experiments to assess feasibility of cyber-physical systems, introduce or improve instrumentation and data collection, and validate applications for machine learning.
• Technology Assessment: Evaluate emerging technologies, instrumentation devices and other tools related to mechatronics and cyber-physical systems.
• Collaboration: Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support interdisciplinary research projects.
• Documentation and Reporting: Prepare technical reports, presentations, and publications for internal and external stakeholders.
• Intellectual Property (IP): Contribute to the development and protection of IP through invention disclosures, patent applications, and technology transfer activities.
• Continuous Learning: Stay current to trends in metal additive manufacturing through conferences and professional development activities.
• Client Engagement: Support the business development function as a scientific discipline leader. Assist in identifying client requirements and prepare technical scope of project proposals.

Screening criteria

Applicants must demonstrate within the content of their application that they meet the following screening criteria in order to be given further consideration as candidates:

Education

Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering or a field relevant to the position. 

A Master’s Degree in Engineering combined with experience in research or technology development relevant to the position may also be considered.

For information on certificates and diplomas issued abroad, please see Degree equivalency

Experience

• Significant* experience in advanced manufacturing in a research environment, including cyber-physical process development and process analysis.
• Experience identifying and installing supplementary instrumentation of manufacturing equipment and developing related Programmable Logic Control systems. 
• Significant* experience working with digital data including data collection, statistical analysis, programming and machine learning.
• Experience planning and executing engineering and/or scientific research projects, including writing technical research project proposals.
• Experience with automated inspection techniques would be considered an asset.

* Significant experience is defined as two (2) to six (6) years of experience. 

Condition of employment

Reliability Status

For a Reliability Status, verification of background information over a period of 5 years is required.

Language requirements

English  

Information on language requirements and self-assessment tests

Assessment criteria

Candidates will be assessed on the basis of the following criteria:

Technical competencies

• Knowledge of mechatronics and advanced manufacturing techniques including instrumentation, user-interface and controller integration with mechanical systems.
• Knowledge of error detection and prevention methods in complex integrated systems such as robotized manufacturing equipment.
• Ability to develop Machine Learning models from complex datasets using AI in order to create closed loop process optimizations.
• Knowledge of project management principles and practices.

Behavioural competencies

Competency Profile(s)

For this position, the NRC will evaluate candidates using the following competency profile: Research.

View all competency profiles

Compensation

NRC employees enjoy a wide-range of competitive benefits including a robust pension plan, comprehensive health and dental coverage, disability and life insurance, office closure at the end of December, and additional supports to enhance your well-being throughout your career and beyond.

Discover the possible

Anything is possible at the NRC, named in 2025 one of Canada’s Top Employers for Young People, Top Employer in the National Capital Region and Forbes Canada’s Best Employers!

As Canada’s largest research and innovation organization, our world-renowned research pushes the boundaries of science and engineering to make the impossible, possible. Every day we explore new ideas through innovative research and help companies discover possibilities that impact Canada’s future and the world.

At the NRC, you’ll also discover new possibilities. Our supportive workplace fosters a culture of creativity, welcoming fresh perspectives and innovation at all levels. We value teamwork. You’ll collaborate across multiple fields and with the brightest minds to find creative solutions. Most importantly, you’ll discover what’s possible within you as you grow, make valuable contributions and progress in your professional journey. From ground-breaking discoveries to a life-changing career, discover your possible at the NRC.

Notes

• Relocation assistance will be determined in accordance with the NRC's directives.
• A pre-qualified list may be established for similar positions for a one-year period.
• Preference will be given to Canadian Citizens and Permanent Residents of Canada. Please include citizenship information in your application.
• The incumbent must adhere to safe workplace practices at all times.
• We thank all those who apply, however only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.